This post contains affiliate links.
Shiba Inus are fascinating dogs that have captured the hearts of many dog lovers worldwide. With their distinctive looks and spirited personalities, it’s no wonder you might consider adding one to your family.
When it comes to buying a Shiba Inu, the price can vary significantly depending on various factors such as the dog’s lineage, age, and breeder reputation.
What Factors Impact The Price Of A Shiba Inu?
Age: Puppies vs Adults
When it comes to Shiba Inu prices, age can influence the cost. In general, puppies tend to be more expensive than adults. This is because they’re considered more desirable due to their size and potential for bonding.
However, adults may have a lower initial cost and have already received vaccinations, reducing additional expenses for you.
Is It Better To Get A Dog As A Puppy Or Older?
This depends on your preferences and lifestyle. Getting a puppy means you’ll have a chance to bond from a young age, but it also requires more time and commitment for training and socialization.
If you opt for an older Shiba Inu, they might be well-trained and adjusted, saving you time and effort.
If A Shiba Inu Is Mixed Or Purebred
A purebred Shiba Inu tends to be more expensive than a mixed breed. However, mixed breeds can still have the same charm and temperament as a purebred. A purebred Shiba Inu may be worth the price if you’re focused on specific traits or a champion bloodline.
Registration Papers Can Also Raise Prices
Shiba Inus with registration papers, particularly those from champion bloodlines, can command a higher price. These papers may provide information about bloodlines, health, and lineage.
If you’re planning to participate in dog shows or breed your Shiba Inu, this may be an important aspect to consider.
Health Checks
Reputable breeders ensure their dogs undergo health testing and share the results with potential buyers. It’s a good thing to consider, as some health issues might affect your Shiba Inu in the future.
Keep in mind that screening tests and vaccinations add to the overall cost, but investing in a healthy dog could save you money in the long run.
Coat Color And Quality
Shiba Inus come in various coat colors, and some are rarer than others. Rare coat colors might be a bit more expensive than common ones. Additionally, the quality of the coat can also affect the price, as a Shiba with a plush and well-maintained coat will be more appealing.
Travel Expenses Can Add Up
Transportation costs can also impact the price of a Shiba Inu. If you live in a different country or far from the breeder, you may have to cover shipping or travel costs to get your Shiba Inu home. This can be a significant factor in the overall cost of your new pet.
Adoption
Before you welcome one into your family, let’s discuss the costs of adopting a Shiba Inu.
First things first: adoption fees. When adopting from a rescue or a shelter, the adoption fees can range anywhere from $150 to $400. These fees usually cover spaying or neutering, initial vaccinations, and microchipping. Keep in mind that these fees can vary based on the organization and location.
Now, let’s discuss the essentials for your new furry friend. Here’s a quick list of initial expenses:
- Food: Expect to spend around $40 to $60 per month for a high-quality dog food.
- Collar & leash: A good quality collar and leash might set you back around $20 to $40.
- Bed & crate: A comfy bed and a sturdy crate will cost approximately $50 to $150, depending on the size and quality.
- Toys & treats: Setting aside around $20 to $40 per month for toys and treats will keep your Shiba entertained and happy.
- Grooming supplies: A good brush, nail clippers, and shampoo could cost anywhere from $30 to $60.
Remember, these are just your initial expenses. It’s also vital to consider routine healthcare costs, such as yearly vaccinations, heartworm prevention, and regular vet check-ups. These can range from $200 to $1,000 annually.
Breeders
When you’re in the market for a Shiba Inu, finding a reputable breeder is essential. Not all breeders are created equal, and you want to ensure you get a healthy, well-socialized pup.
Start by researching breeders in your area, and make a list of those who seem professional and credible. Visit their websites and social media profiles to get an idea of their breeding practices, their reputation, and their expertise.
Next, try to get some feedback from previous customers. Look for reviews online, or even better, ask around in local dog-related social media groups or forums. Word of mouth is often the most reliable source of information.
Once you’ve narrowed down your list, contact the breeders to gather more information. Ask about their breeding philosophy, the health testing they perform on their breeding stock, and their experience with the Shiba Inu breed.
During your conversation, pay attention to how they communicate with you. Are they transparent about their practices, and do they seem knowledgeable and passionate about their dogs? Trust your instincts when interacting with breeders.
Try to visit the breeder’s facility if possible, and meet some of the dogs and their parents. This will give you an idea of the environment your puppy is coming from and help you make a more informed decision.
Remember, a good breeder will be more than happy to answer any questions, provide references, and generally put your mind at ease. Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as necessary to ensure you’re making the right choice for your new Shiba Inu pup.
Initial Supplies You’ll Need To Budget For
When you’re getting ready to welcome a Shiba Inu into your life, it’s essential to be prepared for the initial costs. There are a few crucial items you’ll need to budget for, so let’s help you make a checklist of the must-haves.
First off, a crate for your Shiba Inu is a smart investment. Crate training is an excellent method to offer your dog a safe space and aid in house training. Make sure the crate is well-ventilated and the right size; spending around $50-$100 should get you a quality one.
Next up is a comfy bed for your new friend. Dogs love cozy spots to rest, and having a designated area can help them feel secure. You can find dog beds in different shapes, sizes, and materials; expect to spend anywhere from $30-$60.
You won’t want to forget bowls for food and water! Stainless steel or ceramic dishes are typically the top choices for durability and cleanliness. Purchasing a set of 2 will cost you about $10-$20.
When it comes to food, it’s essential to choose a high-quality meal specifically for Shiba Inus. This breed has some unique dietary requirements, so double-check the label before buying. A large bag of quality dog food will be around $50-$70.
Now let’s talk grooming supplies. Shiba Inus have dense, double-layer coats, requiring regular brushing. You’ll need a good brush (around $10-$20) and shampoo specially formulated for dogs (approximately $10-$15).
Don’t forget the leashes and collars! You’ll need a sturdy collar, a name tag with your contact information, and a leash to walk your Shiba Inu safely. Estimate around $20-$40 for these essentials.
Finally, budget for toys and treats to keep your Shiba Inu engaged and entertained. Puzzle toys, chew toys, and a variety of treats can help you build a positive relationship with your dog. Expect to spend around $30-$50 on these fun items.
Common Recurring Cost Of Owning A Shiba Inu
Vet Care
Regular vet visits are essential for keeping your Shiba Inu healthy and happy. Usually, you should budget for at least one vet check-up per year, which can range from $50 to $200.
It’s important to account for vaccinations and preventative medications, such as flea and tick treatments, which might cost between $200-$1,000 annually. Don’t forget to consider the costs of any unforeseen illnesses or emergencies.
Grooming
Shiba Inus have a beautiful double coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its health and appearance. Since they’re self-groomers, you’ll need to invest in quality brushes and grooming tools, totaling around $50-$100.
Professional grooming services may occasionally be necessary, costing $20 or more per session. It’s also essential to keep their nails trimmed – a simple nail clipper will do the trick, costing around $10.
Training
Training is crucial for your Shiba Inu, as they can be stubborn and independent. Group training classes are commonly priced around $100-$200 per 6-8 week session. Alternatively, you can opt for private lessons, usually costing $50-$100 per hour.
Investing in some basic training tools like a leash, collar, and treats will range between $50-$100. Remember, proper training is an investment in a happy home and a well-behaved Shiba Inu.
Monthly Cost Of Owning A Shiba Inu
Owning a Shiba Inu can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to consider the monthly costs associated with caring for one. This way, you’ll know what to expect and can budget accordingly.
Let’s start with the basics – food. You’ll need to feed your Shiba Inu a high-quality dog food, which can cost about $40-$60 per month depending on the brand and your dog’s size.
In addition to food, routine veterinary care is essential to keep your Shiba Inu healthy. Annual check-ups and regular vaccinations can amount to around $200-$400 per year, which averages out to roughly $16-$33 per month.
Don’t forget about grooming! Though Shiba Inus are known for their clean nature, they do require some grooming to maintain their double coat. You should brush your dog’s coat at least once a week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. A monthly visit to a professional groomer can cost around $40-$75.
Now, let’s talk about extras. Shiba Inus need daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. You might opt to enroll your dog in a doggie daycare, which can be helpful if you’re busy during the day. Doggie daycare can cost $15-$30 per day or around $300-$600 per month.
Last but not least, you’ll need some money set aside for unexpected expenses like medical treatment in case of illness or injury. It’s wise to allocate around $50 per month to account for these unforeseen costs.
Here’s a quick summary of the approximate monthly costs:
- Food: $40-$60
- Veterinary care: $16-$33
- Grooming: $40-$75
- Doggie daycare (optional): $300-$600
- Unexpected expenses: $50
Annual Cost Of Owning A Shiba Inu
Owning a Shiba Inu can be a rewarding experience but it’s important to know the costs involved. Here, we’ll break down the annual costs you can expect when owning this delightful breed.
Initial costs like buying a puppy or adopting can range from $1,200 to $2,500. Remember that these costs can vary depending on factors like pedigree and location.
Food expenses are a major part of your annual costs. For a Shiba Inu, expect to spend an average of $400 to $600 per year on high-quality dog food.
Regular vet visits are essential to keep your Shiba healthy. Annual checkups, vaccines, and preventive care can amount to $200 to $400 per year.
Don’t forget about grooming costs. Although Shibas are relatively low-maintenance, you’ll still need to spend around $200 to $300 per year for grooming tools, professional services, and necessary supplies.
To keep your Shiba Inu entertained and comfortable, consider allocating a budget for toys, beds, and other accessories. This might range from $100 to $200 per year.
Keep in mind that your Shiba Inu might need training classes or one-on-one sessions to address behavior issues or boost socialization skills. These costs can vary depending on the frequency and type of training, but you might spend $200 to $500 per year.
Lastly, if you travel or require a pet-sitter, you should factor in the costs of boarding or pet-sitting services. They typically range from $100 to $300 per year, but this will depend on the duration and frequency of your travels.
Other Potential Expenses
Pet Training Services
When you bring a Shiba Inu into your life, you might want to consider enrolling them in pet training services. Shiba Inus can be strong-willed and might need professional guidance to learn basic commands and manners. You can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $120 per group class, or $45 to $120 per hour for private lessons.
Dog Walking Services
If you have a busy schedule or can’t walk your dog during the day, hiring a dog walker could be a great solution. A dog walker will ensure your Shiba Inu gets daily exercise and mental stimulation. The average cost for a dog walker ranges from $15 to $25 per 30-minute walk.
Pet Boarding
Sometimes, you might need to travel without your furry friend. In such cases, pet boarding services provide a safe and comfortable environment for your Shiba Inu while you’re away. Depending on the type and quality of boarding facility, you can expect to pay anywhere between $25 to $60 per night.
Medical Emergencies
Unfortunately, accidents happen, and medical emergencies can arise with your Shiba Inu. It’s essential to factor in the possibility of unexpected costs related to veterinary care. Depending on the severity of the situation, emergency vet visits can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
Consider creating an emergency fund or looking into pet insurance options to help manage these potential expenses.
Summary Of The Total Cost Of Buying And Owning A Shiba Inu
When you’re considering bringing a Shiba Inu into your life, it’s essential to understand the overall cost of buying and owning one. This summary will help give you a clear picture of what to expect.
First off, the cost of purchasing a Shiba Inu can vary. On average, you can expect to invest between $1,200 and $2,500 for a purebred puppy from a reputable breeder, but the price can be higher if the puppy is from a top pedigree. If you opt for a rescue or older dog, the cost may decrease to a couple of hundred dollars.
Bringing a new Shiba Inu home means that you’ll need essential items like a dog bed, crate, collar, leash, food, and bowls. The cost for initial supplies may vary but typically falls between $200 and $500.
Vet bills are another factor to consider. Routine check-ups, vaccinations, annual exams, and preventive treatments are essential for your Shiba Inu’s health. Expect to spend around $500 to $600 during your dog’s first year and roughly $300 per year for the following years of its life. It is essential to note that this amount doesn’t cover unexpected expenses such as accidents or severe health problems.
Food is an indispensable aspect of owning a Shiba Inu. The amount you spend on food will depend on the quality, amount, and your preferences in feeding. High-quality dog food will typically cost between $40 to $70 monthly.
Training classes are optional but can be valuable for first-time Shiba Inu owners. A group class could be a one-time fee of around $150 to $200, while more specialized or private training may be more expensive.
Lastly, Shiba Inus need regular grooming. To maintain a healthy coat and minimize shedding, be ready to spend around $40 to $60 per session if using a professional groomer. Alternatively, you could do most of the grooming at home and save on these expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Should A Shiba Inu Puppy Cost?
A Shiba Inu puppy can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,500, depending on the breeder and the quality of the dog. Make sure to research and find a reputable breeder to ensure you’re getting a healthy and well-bred puppy.
Should I Get A Male Or Female Shiba Inu?
There isn’t a significant difference between male and female Shiba Inu in terms of temperament. Males might be slightly larger than females. Choose the gender based on your preference and if you plan to breed or neuter/spay your dog.
Are Shiba Inus Good For First-Time Owners?
Shiba Inus are known for their independence, which can make them challenging for first-time dog owners. However, if you’re committed to training and socializing your Shiba Inu early on and consistently, you can have success as a first-time Shiba Inu owner.
What Do I Need To Know Before Buying A Shiba Inu?
Before buying a Shiba Inu, it’s essential to know that they have a strong prey drive, shed moderately, and can be more challenging to train. Make sure to research their temperament and characteristics to see if they’re a good match for your lifestyle.
What’s The Typical Cost Of A Shiba Inu Puppy?
Typically, a Shiba Inu puppy can cost between $1,500 and $3,500. The price varies depending on the breeder, location, and quality of the puppy. It’s important to prioritize finding a reputable breeder rather than focusing solely on the cost.
Can I Find Shiba Inu Puppies Under $500?
Finding a healthy Shiba Inu puppy for under $500 might be difficult. Low-cost puppies could come from backyard breeders or puppy mills, which can lead to potential health and behavioral issues. It’s better to invest in a well-bred puppy from a reputable breeder to save money in the long run on potential health care costs.
